Many people believe that you aren’t eligible for Social Security Disability benefits if you are married. That is not true. You can be married and still qualify.
Let’s look at the two main types of disability benefits, SSDI and SSI, to see the different requirements for each.
Both SSDI and SSI have the same health (or medical) requirements for qualification. But, the two programs differ in their non-medical requirements.
SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, is based on your work history and the taxes you have paid into Social Security. It does not matter how much money your spouse makes or how many resources you have. You could be married to someone who earns a high income, or even be a millionaire yourself, and it would not affect your eligibility for SSDI.
SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, is a need-based program. That means Social Security looks at your financial situation, including your spouse’s income and resources if you are married. This is called “deeming.” Part of your spouse’s income is “deemed,” or counted, as if it were yours. In some cases, that can make you ineligible for SSI, but not always. It depends on how much your spouse earns and how many people are in your household.
So while being married can affect SSI, it does not automatically disqualify you. And it never affects SSDI.
At Disability Advocates, we help clients understand which program they may qualify for and how marriage or household income may affect their case. Every situation is unique, and we take the time to explain your options clearly so you know what to expect.
If you have heard that being married means you cannot get disability, do not believe it. You can be married and still receive benefits. The key is understanding which rules apply to your situation and getting the right help from the start.